Twitter  Facebook  YouTubeJoin Now

Chamber News

Back to News
Ontario Enshrining the Right to Wear Poppies in the Workplace

Proposed amendments would ensure workers can pay tribute to veterans

The Ontario government is introducing legislation today that, if passed, would amend the Remembrance Week Act, 2016 to give Ontario workers the right to wear a poppy in the workplace during Remembrance Week. By wearing a poppy, Ontarians remember the bravery and valour of Canadian Armed Forces veterans and active members who fought to preserve peace around the world, protect Canada and defend its freedom and way of life.

“Our government is grateful to those in uniform, past and present, who have selflessly dedicated themselves to serving our country and protecting our values,” said Parm Gill, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “They deserve our unwavering respect, support and gratitude. We show that by wearing poppies, helping to ensure our children and grandchildren never forget the sacrifices they have made for us.”

An exception to the proposed right to wear a poppy will apply if wearing a poppy poses a danger or hazard to the health, safety, or welfare of any person.

As part of the government's continued efforts to honour and support veterans, the legislation, if passed, would also amend the preamble to the Remembrance Week Act, 2016 to state that poppies are worn during Remembrance Week as a symbol of remembrance and respect.

Ontarians come together to proudly wear poppies and support veterans in their community through the Royal Canadian Legion’s annual poppy campaign. Funds raised from the campaign go towards providing grants for veterans in need by funding facilities and transition programs and providing supports for veterans and their spouses who are hospitalized.

By enshrining in law the right to wear a poppy in the workplace and its status as a symbol of remembrance and respect, the government is reminding employers that Ontario owes a debt of gratitude to the brave people who serve our country, and that should be reflected in their employment policies and practices.

 

Quick Facts

  • The proposed amendments, which would come into effect upon Royal Assent, would align with the purpose of the Remembrance Week Act, 2016 of promoting the voluntary observance of Remembrance Day in recognizing the extraordinary courage and profound sacrifice made by the people who gave their lives for Canada in military service.

Chamber Members SAVE on products and services. Check out these Member 2 Member Offers.

Be Prepared First Aid Traning - 15% off
Parsons Cleaners Member offer - 10% OFF
Superior Propane - Save 5% on fixed price propane
Cloud Bookkeeping Services - 10% OFF
Jesan Property Maintenance - SAVE 10%
Shoppers Drug Mart - Save 20% on Thursdays
RBC - Save on Bank charges
Dinkles & Paulos Restaurants - 10% OFF
Esso Chamber
Allen Insurance - Exclusive Chamber Member Rates
Belleville & District Shrine Club
Papa Johns Pizza Member Offer- 25% off
Body Systems Nutrition - 15% OFF purchases.
NRG Alternatives - 10% Discount
Cloud Bookkeeping Services - 10% OFF
Papa Johns Pizza Member Offer- 25% off
Parsons Cleaners Member offer - 10% OFF
Body Systems Nutrition - 15% OFF purchases.
RBC - Save on Bank charges
Superior Propane - Save 5% on fixed price propane
Allen Insurance - Exclusive Chamber Member Rates
NRG Alternatives - 10% Discount
Belleville & District Shrine Club
Esso Chamber
Dinkles & Paulos Restaurants - 10% OFF
Jesan Property Maintenance - SAVE 10%
Shoppers Drug Mart - Save 20% on Thursdays
Be Prepared First Aid Traning - 15% off
Be Prepared First Aid Traning - 15% off
Allen Insurance - Exclusive Chamber Member Rates
Shoppers Drug Mart - Save 20% on Thursdays
Dinkles & Paulos Restaurants - 10% OFF
Body Systems Nutrition - 15% OFF purchases.
Superior Propane - Save 5% on fixed price propane
NRG Alternatives - 10% Discount
Papa Johns Pizza Member Offer- 25% off
Cloud Bookkeeping Services - 10% OFF
Esso Chamber
Belleville & District Shrine Club
Parsons Cleaners Member offer - 10% OFF
RBC - Save on Bank charges
Jesan Property Maintenance - SAVE 10%